Laser technology in military contexts is fundamentally important and has significant economic implications. This volume seeks to convey the physical principles underpinning laser-based military systems, to foster the reader’s appreciation of the fundamental requirements, potential performance and limitations of such systems.
In the book, David Titterton effectively promotes use of qualitative understanding, rather than obscuring ideas through excessive mathematics. A welcome, strong theme of practicality underlies the approach; one appendix, for example, provides “Rules of Thumb and Guidelines,” a most valuable checklist of advice and information. Very clear diagrams and an extensive glossary aid in understanding the many topics treated.
Although Titterton stresses that this is not “another laser book,” the work does give concise explanations of the operating principles of a wider variety of laser systems than may be encountered in other laser books. However it is the breadth of coverage of a laser-based military technology that will appeal to those who have a need to use or understand that technology.
The book’s 18 chapters and 4 appendixes treat topics including laser weaponry, sensors, countermeasures and rangefinders. In addition, one chapter deals with the safe use of lasers, and another considers the education and training requirements needed to develop and use military equipment. Most readers will find all of their needs satisfied here.
Review by Professor K. Alan Shore, Bangor University School of Electronic Engineering, Wales, U.K.
The opinions expressed in the book review section are those of the reviewer and do not necessarily reflect those of OPN or OSA.
Book Reviews
Military Laser Technology and Systems
Publish Date: 09 July 2015